Unexpected Departure
England midfielder Phil Foden has temporarily left the England Euro 2024 training camp and flown back to the UK just days before their Round of 16 match on Sunday. The Manchester City forward started in all three of England’s Group C matches but may now miss England’s first knockout game in Germany, adding uncertainty to the team’s lineup.
Reason for Absence
According to reports, Foden returned to the UK due to a family emergency the day after Gareth Southgate’s team secured the top spot with a 0-0 draw against Slovenia.
FA Statement:
On Wednesday, the FA released a statement: “Phil Foden has temporarily left the England training camp to return to the UK due to a family emergency.”
Welcoming a New Family Member
Reports indicate that Foden returned to Manchester for the birth of his third child. Pep Guardiola recently confirmed that his star player was expecting to expand his growing family.
Impact on England’s Lineup
Foden’s sudden absence could disrupt Southgate’s preparations for Sunday’s Round of 16 match. He played 89 minutes on the left wing against Slovenia before being substituted by Anthony Gordon.
Group Stage Performance
Despite winning only one match and scoring just two goals in three games, England topped Group C with five points. Foden played a significant role, including 69 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Denmark and helping England secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Serbia in their opener.
Phil Foden’s Performance:
| Match | Minutes Played | Result |
|---|---|---|
| vs Serbia | 90 | 1-0 Win |
| vs Denmark | 69 | 1-1 Draw |
| vs Slovenia | 89 | 0-0 Draw |
Fan Debate and Player Statistics
Foden’s starting position has been a topic of debate among England fans, with many doubting his effectiveness on the left flank. This season, he contributed 19 goals and 8 assists in 35 matches and was named Premier League Player of the Season.
Foden’s Achievements:
- Goals: 19
- Assists: 8
- Honors: Premier League Player of the Season
His form helped Guardiola and Manchester City achieve an unprecedented fourth consecutive treble, winning the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup.
Potential Adjustments for the Round of 16
Foden’s absence may force Southgate to adjust the lineup for the Round of 16 if he does not return to the Blankenhain training base in time. England’s next opponent will be determined after the completion of Groups E and F on Wednesday night. Notably, the Netherlands, having slipped from first to third in Group D, could become a potential opponent for England.
England’s Group C Performance:
| Position | Matches Won | Goals Scored | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 1 | 2 | 5 |
Looking Ahead
England tops Group C and is placed on the opposite side of the bracket from other favorites like France, Portugal, Germany, and Spain. The team now awaits confirmation of their Round of 16 opponent, aiming to advance further despite the uncertainty surrounding Foden’s availability.(Superace88)